Here’s to a Happy 55th Birthday, Aratoi!

By Becky Bateman 

The Wairarapa has always had a large and active community of artists and craftspeople _ but before 1969 it had no dedicated exhibition space. After the closure of Masterton Museum in 1954 and the dispersal of its collection, there was a strong desire among arts supporters to see some evidence of the cultural life of the community.

Enthusiastic gallery proponents bought, with the aid of public subscription and John Maunsell of Hansells, the foundation work for a future public art collection: a Barbara Hepworth sculpture “at a very good price” of £500 (over $20,000 in 2024).

On October 11, 1969, the Wairarapa Arts Centre opened. 

Patron Dr Morvyn Williams said in his opening speech that ʺin the arts there is no place for arrogance – every man, woman, and child should take part in the activities of an arts centre.ʺ … Continue Reading

Horses, riders plod safely around the streets

A dozen horse-and-rider teams plus a Miniature Pony and handler plodded several kilometers through Martinborough streets _ and round The Square in mid-September _ safe on their trek as local motorists showed courtesy and patience during the demonstration.

Demonstrating what, you ask? That horses and riders in Hi-Viz and helmets can tromp the streets and roads without causing chaos _ or even distruption _ during mid-morning Saturday traffic.

None of the horses showed any concern as motorists slowed, pulled to the roadside and shuttled past the 70-odd metre-long trekking mob as it moved from Shooting Butts Road to central town – and back. 

The only mishap: one buxus shrub in the centre of The Square was missing a few leaves,  grabbed by an eager mount. 

Riders gave clear arm/hand-signals at every turn. No driver appeared flummoxed by the trekkers. … Continue Reading

House Price Factoids

CoreLogic NZ notes South Wairarapa

house prices are still leading the region,

despite median prices “tracking down” 

around 5%, while rising 4% in Masterton. … Continue Reading

How Well Do You Know People in our Community? – October 2024

By Lyle Griffiths

Rebecca Kneale is a very recent addition to town, a Tauranga girl, who has migrated south to Martinborough.

Educated at Otumoetai College, Rebecca left school to experience overseas work and travel. In London she worked for an architectural firm.

“It was a time when scanners were just being introduced. My role was to implement the coding systems and create subcategories for electrical, mechanical and interior designers so they could be accessed by date order and filed for our staff of 30+ to easily access. It was a new learning curve for me, but it was fun, and I really enjoyed it.

“When we returned to New Zealand we continued working in the construction industry, designing, building and selling homes in Auckland. An interlude followed when I became a stay-at-home mother. Having three children under five, life became very busy.

“We were constantly moving. I can’t even tally up the number of houses we lived in,” laughs Rebecca. … Continue Reading